Forus stands with the people which are suffering from the atrocious and devastating consequences of war and condemns any action that is harmful to the citizens of Ukraine. A humanitarian disaster is already unfolding, exacerbating what was already a preoccupying situation before the outbreak of the conflict. Our support goes to all the people who are being directly affected by this war. As a global community, we must ensure their protection, international humanitarian law must be respected and assistance guaranteed.

The Forus network was created to promote the dialogue between peoples, the protection of their rights and the expression of their voices. The preservation of peaceful diplomacy, of democratic systems, of the right to peacefully assemble and of a vibrant civil society are central to functioning societies. Democracy is being shattered today but civil society organisations will continue their struggle for peace which is why we need to ensure their ability to function properly and the protection of civic space.

Citizen mobilisations around the world, including in Russia, are multiplying to call for the immediate end to this war. De-escalation is possible, and any resolution to the conflict must be people-centered and ensure the preservation of human rights and human dignity. 

Photo: Markus Spiske